As Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable evolution of our city into a hub of innovation and opportunity. Innovation, to me, means leveraging our unique assets and positioning Washington, D.C., at the forefront of America’s economic future. As the nation’s capital, we possess an extraordinary blend of federal, educational, and medical institutions and a vibrant international community. This environment makes us a magnet for businesses, especially in emerging sectors like cybersecurity, AI, and FinTech. We’re proud to be ranked as the best state in the nation for technology careers, the most innovative state, the #2 best city for women in tech, and a top 5 city for startups.
Our city stands at the intersection of national and local policy, offering fertile ground for startups to flourish. We provide a platform where innovation can thrive for new businesses emerging from our seven major universities and complex challenges where public policy meets economic opportunity. As a significant player here, the federal government offers more than policy; it invests in innovation through service procurement, and we are determined to be the city where this innovation takes root.
One of the most significant challenges we face is navigating the complexity of our region, which spans the borders of Maryland and Virginia. While this diversity enriches our community, it also presents barriers we must work together to overcome. By breaking down these barriers and ensuring seamless connections between talent and opportunity, we can harness the full potential of our metropolitan area.
In terms of leadership, I believe in the power of communication, motivation, and coordination. Mayor Muriel Bowser has challenged all of us – across government and industry – to redefine what cities can offer. In D.C., we aim to create a modern, resilient environment that sets the pace for future growth. This requires open-mindedness and innovation from government leaders to foster a vibrant private sector.
My advice to entrepreneurs and innovators looking to disrupt the market is simple: focus on your core competency and surround yourself with partners who can help you tackle the business challenges. Utilize existing resources and networks to streamline your operations, allowing you to concentrate on developing your product. Our city is committed to creating networks and innovation hubs to support you in this journey.
Ultimately, I want people to understand that D.C. is more than a government town. We are one of the top five tech markets in the country, a city rooted in diversity, and a welcoming community for all. Whether you’re international, LGBTQ, a person of color, or from any corner of the country, you’ll find a supportive environment here. Our city is a global platform with a small-town feel, rich in culture and opportunity. I invite you to explore this dynamic community and make it your home, where passion meets success.
